our district Leader

Reverend Kenneth Carl Taylor, Presiding Elder

Reverend Kenneth Carl Taylor, the beloved son of Mrs. Thelma Taylor and the late Mr. Roosevelt Taylor, was born in Eastover, South Carolina. He is a proud graduate of the University of South Carolina, where he earned his degree in African American History and Accounting. Guided by faith and purpose, Rev. Taylor answered the divine call to ministry in 1995 under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Joseph A. Darby. His journey of service began with his first pastoral appointment to the Adams Chapel Initiative in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

For over two decades, Reverend Taylor faithfully served as pastor of Turner Memorial AME Church in Columbia, South Carolina, where, through his visionary leadership and Christ-centered guidance, the congregation experienced remarkable spiritual and numerical growth. Affectionately known as “the pastor with the melodious voice,” he continues to inspire hearts through the preached Word and song, touching lives with both grace and conviction.

Under the divine appointment and wisdom of The Right Reverend James L. Davis, Presiding Prelate of the Seventh Episcopal District (South Carolina), Reverend Taylor now serves as Presiding Elder of the Edisto District within the South Carolina Annual Conference—the Mother Conference of African Methodism. In this sacred assignment, Presiding Elder Taylor oversees 32 churches, shepherding pastors and congregations with integrity, compassion, and spiritual excellence.

Throughout his ministry, Presiding Elder Taylor has been deeply committed to community transformation. He has led feeding programs, home repair initiatives, and disaster recovery efforts that exemplify the biblical charge found in Matthew 25:40—“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” His leadership extends beyond the pulpit as he serves on numerous boards and commissions throughout the Columbia area and across the State of South Carolina, continually demonstrating servant leadership rooted in faith, humility, and love for God’s people.

Presiding Elder Taylor’s ministry reflects the heart of a true shepherd—one who walks humbly with God, leads courageously, and serves faithfully for the advancement of the Kingdom.